Nature writer David Quammen has written a book called “Monster of God.” It’s about man-eating predators. Quammen says that such beasts have often been worshiped but the habitats are being encroached on by development.
Intelligent. Optimistic. Curious.
Audio
DEVO co-founder Mark Mothersbaugh recommends "Editions of You" from Roxy Music’s 1973 album, "For Your Pleasure."
Brenda Peterson talks with Steve Paulson about the gray whale. They mate and give birth in Baja, where they exhibit “friendly whale syndrome” and migrate to Alaska.
If you’re old enough, you’ll remember the Monkees, the pop group with a hit TV show. Michael Nesmith wore the green stocking cap. Since then, he’s reinvented his career several times over. He (sort of) invented country rock. And the music video.
Chang-rae Lee is a Korean-American and the author of “Aloft.” He reads a bit from the novel.
Abram de Swaan is a Dutch sociologist who studies the politics of language. He tells Steve Paulson that English is the worldwide language of business and diplomacy, though many wish it weren’t.
Alex Stone is a magician with a degree in physics. He performs a magic trick over the radio and explains how it works.
To hear one of Alex Stone's favorite bar tricks, listen here.
We hear an excerpt from David Isay’s documentary about the traditional gospel quartets of Jefferson County, Alabama.
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